Updates on zones, ports and aviation from KSA and UAE

ZONES-

UAE’s Jafza + Haldiram’s to build major saffron processing facility: The Jebel Ali Freezone (Jafza) inked an agreement with Indian food giant Haldiram to establish one of the largest saffron processing facilities in the GCC, according to a Dubai Media Office statement released on Friday. The facility — which will be managed by saffron processing specialist Kesar Expert & Packer — is set to begin operations in March 2025. It will initially process 30 metric tonnes of saffron, with plans to scale up to 100 tonnes over five years. The entities also discussed plans to expand Haldiram’s presence in Dubai and explore additional investments in food processing and distribution.

AVIATION-

#1- Abu Dhabi Airports completed a comprehensive rehabilitation of Sir Bani Yas Airport, enhancing infrastructure, safety, and sustainability to support growing tourism in Al Dhafra, according to a statement released on Friday. The upgrades include runway and taxiway reconstruction, a revamped lighting system, and new weather observation technology for improved operational efficiency and safety. The airport can now accommodate Code 4E aircraft, which includes Boeing 747-400, Boeing 777, and Airbus A330/340.

#2- Dnata debuts operations at FCO: UAE-based air services provider Dnata has launched its EUR 20 mn seven-year airport handling operations agreement at Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO), according to a statement released on Thursday. The firm will utilize its ground support equipment fleet to streamline operations and ensure environmental efficiency.

We knew this was coming: Dnata was awarded the handling license agreement back in November 2024.

ICYMI- Dnata rolled out a new ground handling system at the US Orlando International Airport earlier this month at an investment cost of USD 3 mn. The initiative — dubbed Station of Tomorrow — boasts a fully electric fleet of ground support equipment, advanced telematics, and AI-powered monitoring designed to enhance operations and boost efficiency.

PORTS-

KSA + Singapore look to digitalize supply chains: KSA’s National Industrial Development and Logistics Program has inked a strategic agreement with Singapore’s Port Authority Ventures to encourage the development of port automation and sustainable supply chains, according to a statement released last week. The pair aim to foster innovation in port automation, green energy, and data-driven supply chain digital solutions.

EQUIPMENT-

DP World boosts its UK handling capacity: The UAE’s DP World is investing GBP 60 mn in four new quay cranes at its UK Southampton container terminal, which are slated to arrive starting mid-2026, according to a statement published last week. The new equipment — set to be the largest in Europe — comes as part of the company’s push to enhance its UK end-to-end supply chain network by boosting operational efficiency and handling rates at the terminal, DP World UK VP Aart Hille Ris Lambers said.

The details: The cranes — weighing over 2k tonnes each — can simultaneously move two 40 ft containers from vessel to yard. The cranes are made to service the largest ships currently in operation — holding as much as 24k TEUs — and have an operational lifespan of around 25 years.

OTHER STORIES WORTH KNOWING THIS MORNING-

• Egypt + New Zealand to sign aviation agreement: Egypt’s Cabinet has approved an agreement to expand air services with New Zealand. (Daily News)
• SCAD + Serco renew partnership: UAE’s Sharjah Civil Aviation Department (SCAD) has renewed its partnership with Serco to boost air services. (Statement)
• KSA boosts digitalization in aviation sector: KSA's General Authority of Civil Aviation has launched Ajwa to streamline services, enhance efficiency, and foster a comprehensive digital environment in the aviation sector. (SPA)